Willie Revillame on leave 'indefinitely'

Willie is on leave "indefinitely" because of a controversy last August 3 when he ordered to cut the simultaneous live broadcast of the procession of former President Corazon Aquino's remains from his noontime show. Indefinitely means it can be two days or three days said Bong Osorio, head of ABS-CBN's corporate communications, told abs-cbnNEWS.com in a phone interviewJohnny Manahan, a Star Magic executive defended Revillame from critics who have lashed at the host for being "arrogant." Contrary to criticisms, the Star Magic executive said the “Wowowee” host is "simple, compassionate and a pushover." Manahan also pointed out that the "Wowowee" host would never disrespect the late former president and her family. Manahan admitted though that Revillame did not carefully choose his words when he ordered a stop to the live broadcast. The live broadcast showed the transfer of Mrs. Aquino's body to Manila Cathedral from La Salle Green Hills on August 3, prompting an irked Revillame to have it cut. Revillame explained that it was inappropriate to broadcast the funeral procession while they were having fun inside the studio. Revillame's action last Monday drew instant criticism from various quarters, particularly in various online forums. On August 4, Revillame publicly apologized, but said he was standing by his decision to have the simultaneous broadcast removed on air. He also disclosed that he had asked ABS-CBN entertainment production head Linggit Tan to remove it, and that he only blew his top when he saw the broadcast again on the screen. He also said that he never meant to offend people. He said his only intention was to give respect and make the occasion a solemn one. Osorio, meanwhile, said Revillame has already “apologized and the Aquino family has accepted it.”
-Reyma Buan-Deveza, abs-cbnNEWS.com